NHL notes: Steve Mason signs multi-year extension with Flyers

The Philadelphia Flyers signed goaltender Steve Mason to a multi-year contract extension, the team announced Saturday.

According to multiple reports it’s for three years and worth $12.3 million.

In 36 games this season, Mason is 19-11-5 with a 2.48 goals-against average, .917 save percentage and has one shutout. He is 17-4-5 in his last 26 appearances since Nov. 2.

Mason, 25, was traded from the Columbus Blue Jackets to the Flyers in April 2013.

In 275 career games with the Flyers and Blue Jackets, Mason is 119-112-32-20 with a 2.82 goals-against average and .906 save percentage. He won the Calder Trophy as the NHL’s rookie of the year in 2009.

TANGUAY TO RETURN?

The Colorado Avalanche could soon be getting more support up front.

Alex Tanguay, who at one point this season looked as though he’d sit the rest of the year, told the Denver Post on Saturday he’s moving closer to a return to the ice.

The Avs winger has been sidelined with a knee injury since Nov. 2.

During his recovery, Tanguay sustained a more serious hip injury, which team personnel originally thought might require surgery.

“The good thing is it feels better every day," Tanguay told the Post in confirming his hip is healing faster than expected.

"There were only two scenarios: I was going to be able to play with it or I was going to have surgery. But we’ve been battling hard and we’re hoping that things are going to keep going well.”

The 34-year-old Tanguay had three goals and six assists through 13 games before missing a significant chunk of time. He won’t reveal his timeline for recovery.

"I’m expecting (to play this season),” Tanguay said. “I’ve set a date in mind and I’m hoping to play by then.

“I’ve just tried to come in and do the stuff I’ve needed to do on a daily basis."

LIGHTNING LOSE HEDMAN

Tampa Bay Lightning defenceman Victor Hedman was helped off the ice during Saturday’s game against the San Jose Sharks with what appeared to be an ankle injury.

Hedman couldn’t put any weight on his right foot after blocking a shot.

The Tampa Bay Tribune reported the big Swede was seen on crutches following the Lightning’s 5-4 loss to the visiting San Jose Sharks.

Hedman won’t travel with the team ahead of Sunday’s game in Carolina.

The 23-year-old Swede is having his best season since being drafted second overall in 2009.

Through 43 games this season, Hedman has 26 points (10 goals, 16 assists) and is a plus-5.

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